Meet Gabriela

Supporting children, families, and adults through thoughtful, connected, and compassionate care.

I work with children, parents, and individuals to better understand emotions, navigate challenges, and strengthen connection.

In my experience, people often communicate what they are going through in ways that don’t always look straightforward: through behavior, big emotions, or withdrawal. My role is to help make sense of those experiences while creating a space where they feel safe, supported, and understood.

I also work closely with parents/caregivers and adults navigating their own challenges, recognizing that meaningful change happens both within the individual and in the relationships or environments that shape our lives.

Qualifications

Practicing for 10 years
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Colorado
Masters of Social Work, Portland State University, 2016
Certificate in Infant-Toddler Mental Health, 2014
Certificate from Synergetic Play Therapy Institute
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Grinnell College, 2009

My Approach

My work is grounded in Synergetic Play Therapy, a research-informed approach that integrates play, neuroscience, and the therapeutic relationship. Through play, children are able to express experiences that may be difficult to put into words. Within a safe and supportive environment, they begin to develop awareness of their emotions, learn how to regulate them, and build a stronger sense of confidence and connection.

In working with adults, I bring a similar lens, focusing on emotional awareness, nervous system regulation, and understanding patterns that impact relationships and daily life.

I view therapy as a collaborative process that supports both the individual and the broader family system in meaningful and lasting ways.

What guides my work

I believe that behavior is a form of communication.

For children, this often shows up through play, emotion, or behavior. For adults, it may show up through patterns, stress responses, or relationship challenges.

In both cases, these experiences are not problems to be fixed, but signals to be understood.

My goal is to help clients feel more aware, more regulated, and more connected—both to themselves and to the people around them.

Who I work with:

  • Children navigating emotional or behavioral challenges

  • Parents and caregivers seeking support and guidance

  • Individuals looking to better understand emotions, stress, or relationship patterns

A bit more about me

I understand that reaching out for support can feel like a big step. My goal is to create a space where both children, families, and adults feel comfortable, respected, and supported throughout the process.

I bring a calm, thoughtful, and collaborative presence to my work, and I value building strong relationships with the families I work with.

Let’s connect

If you’re considering support for your child or family, or yourself, I’d be happy to connect and talk through what you’re experiencing and how I may be able to help.

Reach out

Interested in learning more about my how we can connect or how I can support you?